Dr. Presnell has more than 16 years of experience in the leadership of product-focused research and development. As an Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Presnell’s research in liver and prostate biology and carcinogenesis produced cell- and tissue-based technologies that were out licensed for industrial applications. She joined Becton Dickinson in 2001 and played a key role in the early discovery and development of cell-based tools and reagents for their life sciences portfolio. Presnell joined Tengion in 2007 and was responsible for leading the discovery and early development of Tengion’s Neo-Kidney Augment™. As the Chief Technology Officer at Organovo, Presnell has led the growth and development of the research and development organization, including evolution of the company’s technology portfolio, and has played an instrumental role in securing funds in support of corporate growth initiatives. Presenell holds a Ph.D. in Pathology from the Medical College of Virginia.